Autism in the News- 07.14.11

Hastings college is first in UK to get autism award (UK)Sussex Coast College Hastings (SCCH) last week became the only general further education college in the country to be awarded autism accreditation status from the National Autistic Society (NAS). Read more.

Woodbury, Minn., women team up to help families living with autism (Woodbury, Minn.)For Kristin Pruitt and Lisa Valera, celebrating the Fourth of July with family is not an easy thing. In fact, they usually just avoid it. Pruitt’s 12-year-old son was diagnosed eight years ago with autism that is triggered by noise, crowded spaces and hectic events. Johnathon is a monotone boy who’s uncomfortable with hugging, expressing emotion and making eye contact. Read more.

Autism funding to help families (The Observer)A centre offering assistance and therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder will start helping Gladstone families almost immediately thanks to new funding. Autism Queensland program manager Valerie Preston said the centre would offer family and group-based early intervention programs for children aged under six. Read more.

Mom finds support and understanding through autism society (The Western Star)Ever since her son was three Sheila Wight has been dealing with his behavioural issues. Tyler Best is now 15 and last summer was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. That diagnosis has given the single mother from Pasadena and her son more control over their lives. Read more.

Joey Travolta film camp at St. Mary’s opens new horizons for campers with autism, Asperger’s syndrome (San Diego, Calif.)
In a small classroom at St. Mary’s College, Joey Travolta is in “director mode.” From testing sound equipment to pointing out markers in the scene where his actors should stand to deliver their lines, every aspect of the room he commands is reminiscent of a Hollywood film set. Read more.